To find legitimate online degree programs, look for universities that are:
* Regionally accredited: This is the more prestigious and widely accepted form of accreditation. Regional accrediting agencies evaluate institutions within a specific geographic region. Degrees from regionally accredited institutions are usually more easily transferred to other universities and are more likely to be recognized by employers. You can find a list of recognized regional accrediting agencies in the United States through the U.S. Department of Education's website. Other countries have their own equivalent accrediting bodies.
* Nationally accredited (in the US): While nationally accredited institutions offer degrees, they are generally less recognized than those with regional accreditation. These programs may be suitable for specific career paths or if regional accreditation is unattainable, but always verify employer acceptance before enrolling. The U.S. Department of Education also provides a list of nationally recognized accrediting agencies.
Where to search for accredited online universities:
* The U.S. Department of Education's website (if in the US): This is your best starting point to check the accreditation status of a university. Other countries will have similar governmental bodies.
* Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) website (if in the US): CHEA is a non-profit organization that works to improve higher education quality.
* Your country's Ministry of Education or equivalent body: This is the most authoritative source for information on accredited institutions within your country.
* University websites: Reputable universities will clearly display their accreditation status on their website. Look for the accreditation logo and links to the accrediting agency's website.
Cautionary advice:
* Beware of unaccredited institutions: Avoid universities that claim to be accredited but don't list their accrediting agency, or whose accrediting agency is not recognized. These institutions often offer degrees of questionable value.
* Research the program thoroughly: Before enrolling, research the specific program you're interested in. Look at reviews, graduation rates, and career services offered.
* Check employer acceptance: Some employers may not accept degrees from online universities, especially those with national accreditation. It's best to verify with potential employers before committing to a program.
In short, diligent research is essential. Don't just rely on advertising; always verify the accreditation and reputation of the institution before investing your time and money.